Choose Friendship with God

Choose Friendship with God

“You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. Or do you think Scripture says without reason that he jealously longs for the spirit he has caused to dwell in us? But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: 'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.' Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” (James 4:4-8)

In these verses, James paints a vivid picture of the choice we face daily: to be either a friend of God or a friend of the world. But what does this mean?

An enemy of God is one who prioritizes the values, desires, and ways of the world over those of God. It’s someone who seeks fulfillment, significance, and satisfaction in worldly pleasures, power, and possessions rather than in God. Such a person places themselves in opposition to God’s will and purposes.

On the other hand, a friend of God is one who aligns their heart, mind, and actions with God’s will. It’s someone who seeks intimacy, guidance, and joy in their relationship with God. They prioritize spiritual growth, obedience, and love for God and others above all else.

God desires our friendship, not out of need, but out of love. He longs for us to draw near to Him, to experience His grace, and to walk in His ways. Yet, He also warns us of the dangers of pride and worldliness, which can hinder our intimacy with Him.

To be a friend of God means to humble ourselves before Him, to resist the temptations of the enemy, and to draw near to Him with clean hands and a pure heart. It requires surrendering our own desires and agendas to embrace His will and His ways.

Today, let us choose to be friends of God, seeking His presence, following His leading, and living in His grace. As we do, we will find fulfillment, peace, and purpose beyond anything the world could offer.

May we be known as those who walk closely with God, shining His light in a world that desperately needs His love and truth.

LoveUmorethanUknow Pastor Stephän Kirby